Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

I will be very brief. The Bill is important for streamlining how the courts operate. There will be a significant reason for that because of the delays that will arise as a consequence of Covid. That is all the more reason for the Bill to be enacted. I am generally supportive of the sentiment behind the amendment, but I specifically want to hear what the Minister has to say on it. I agree with Deputy Howlin in that regard.

In terms of judges interpreting what the Oireachtas means, what the Minister says in the debate is really important because if judges are wondering how they should interpret something we give them markers. The Minister in particular gives markers on what is intended. It is important that this point is specifically addressed for that very reason. If the amendment is not taken, it may well avoid this problem arising in the first place, so it is really important that we hear that.

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